Two New London men charged with breaking into cars

New London — Police arrested two New London men early Wednesday morning who they say were breaking into cars at various locations in the city.

Joseph Allen, 20, of 103 Truman St., and Taj Johnson, 19, of 23 Chappell St., were each charged with two counts of third-degree burglary, fourth-degree larceny and fifth-degree larceny.

Johnson, who police said was found with brass knuckles, was also charged with possession of a dangerous weapon. Allen was charged with first-degree failure to appear in court related to a pending criminal case.

Police said early Wednesday morning, a resident called and told them that two men were breaking into a car at a parking lot located at 281 Gardner Ave. The caller gave police a description and location of where the men were heading.

Patrol officers responded to the area and found Allen and Johnson, who fit the description.

Police said they were able to find the victim in the Gardner Avenue break-in and were able to determine that a Dell laptop and cash were taken. Police also discovered that another car in the area of 51 Mansfield Road was burglarized. An Apple laptop and money were taken from that vehicle. Police said all stolen property was recovered.

Both men were held in lieu of bonds pending their arraignment Wednesday in New London Superior Court.